Imagine never having to pull out your iPhone again just to check a WhatsApp message. That future is here. WhatsApp has finally launched its long-awaited Apple Watch app, and it’s a game-changer for staying connected on the go. But here’s where it gets interesting: this isn’t just about reading messages—it’s about a whole new way to interact with your chats right from your wrist.
Announced on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the new app lets users receive call notifications, read full messages, and even record and send voice messages directly from their Apple Watch. In a blog post, WhatsApp emphasized, “This new experience will help you stay on top of your chats without needing to pull out your iPhone.” And this is the part most people miss: it also includes features like reacting to messages, viewing more chat history on-screen, and enjoying clearer images and stickers.
But here’s the controversial bit: while WhatsApp touts end-to-end encryption for all messages and calls, some users might wonder if wearing their conversations on their wrist could introduce new privacy risks. After all, how secure is a smartwatch compared to a locked iPhone? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
The app requires an Apple Watch Series 4 or later, running watchOS 10 or later, so not everyone will be able to jump on board immediately. And while this launch wasn’t entirely unexpected—WhatsApp was spotted testing the app last week—it’s still a significant step forward in the company’s efforts to expand beyond mobile and desktop.
Remember when WhatsApp launched its iPad app in May 2025? Before that, iPad users were stuck with the web version in a browser. Now, with features like video calls for up to 32 people, screen sharing, and dual-camera support, the iPad app feels like a full-fledged experience. The Apple Watch app feels like the next logical step in this evolution.
But let’s not forget Snapchat, which rolled out its own Apple Watch app just a few months ago. While Snapchat’s focus is on quick replies—using the keyboard, Scribble, Dictation, or emojis—WhatsApp is taking a broader approach, letting users dive deeper into their chats. Which strategy do you think will win out? Let us know in the comments.
One thing’s for sure: the race to dominate wearable tech is heating up. As WhatsApp promises even more functionality for Apple Watches in the future, it’s clear this is just the beginning.
Written by Aisha Malik, a consumer news reporter at TechCrunch. Aisha brings years of experience covering telecom and tech, holding degrees from the University of Toronto and Western University. Reach out to her at aisha@techcrunch.com or via encrypted message at aisha_malik.01 on Signal.
